French Government gave no response to applications of Armenian organizations on Kessab: Hilda Tchoboian

YEREVAN, APRIL 11, ARMENPRESS. One of the main means of insuring the existence of Armenian Kessab in Syria is the interference of France and the United States of America, to compel the forces of Turkey to abandon Kessab. To reach the mentioned goal not only the Armenian organizations of Diaspora have something to do, but the Armenian authorities as well. Till now the French Government has given no response to the applications of the Armenian organizations on Kessab. About this in her interview with Armenpress told Hilda Tchoboian – the regional deputy of Rhon-Alpes of France.

-Do the French authorities intend to condemn the Kessab events on any level and can we expect any substantial steps?

-I have had meetings with some French politicians in the frames of my position. When Kessab events happened, I drew the attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of France to that fact. Unfortunately, it’s obvious, that the French authorities do not display any willingness to give solution to this question.

-What are the plans of France regarding the 100th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide?

- A long list of scientific conferences, theatrical, cultural and commemorating events has been made in France. An important place is Sevres near Paris (the name of this city has a great importance for the Armenians), where a memorial complex dedicated to the Armenian Genocide will be erected. For the erection of the memorial complex two French students were granted awards, who are now working with the architectural office for the implementation of the program. On April 24 2015, on the official opening ceremony of the memorial complex the high-ranking representatives of the French authorities and the international organizations are expected to be present. Later on, the European Centre of Study of the Armenian Genocide and the Armenian Cultural Heritage will function within the memorial complex. (THE FULL VERSION OF THE INTERVIEW IS AVAILABLE IN ARMENIAN)

Interview by Ani Nazaryan